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Strategic Planning

The BPL Compass

Jamaica Plain Branch Renovation Meeting

by Christine Schonhart

The second community meeting for the design phase of renovation of the Jamaica Plain Branch of the Boston Public Library was held on May 21 at the branch. About 35 neighbors attended the meeting where architects from Utile, Inc. presented an overview of the project along with three potential options for floor plans. Community members discussed the importance of the collection, access to technology, a space for teens, and the need for large and small community gathering places. A discussion on what a maker-space might look like at the branch included suggestions for computers, design software, group work stations and places for the community to share ideas and art.

This renovation project includes plans for additions at the South Street side of the building as well as an addition on the north side to accommodate an elevator. The ultimate design will need to be reviewed and approved by the Massachusetts Historical Commission. This phase is expected to wrap up in Winter 2015, and pending City Council budget approval, the construction phase could begin in the spring or summer of 2015. Renovations will require that the branch be closed to the public for approximately 12-18 months.

Meeting notes and the presentation can be found here. Shown in the image at right is one of the proposed layouts for the main level of the branch.